Sales executives to bank managers, TGCSB exposes how white-collar officials are committing fraud

Hyderabad: The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has unearthed a web of fraud involving bank employees, corporate executives, accountants and educated youth during its first-ever simultaneous multi-state cybercrime operation.

Among those arrested are three bank employees, a Sales Executive from IDFC Bank linked to 106 cases, a Federal Bank employee and a Branch Manager from Bandhan Bank, all accused of facilitating illegal fund transfers.

Also in custody are a Diploma holder in Computer Operations connected to 96 cases, an Accountant from Kilpauk Audit Office, Chennai (31 cases), a BBA graduate (45 cases) and an MNC employee who misused his corporate account for financial fraud.

The operation exposes how white-collar expertise and institutional access are being weaponised by organised cyber syndicates to defraud citizens across India.

Five-state operation: 81 arrests, Rs 95 crore trail

The 25-day special drive, conducted across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, resulted in the arrest of 81 cybercriminals, including seven women.

This marks the first coordinated multi-state crackdown by TGCSB, reflecting its zero-tolerance policy and growing inter-state cooperation in tackling cyber-enabled financial crimes.

Kerala led the tally with 28 arrests, followed by Maharashtra (23), Karnataka (13), Andhra Pradesh (10) and Tamil Nadu (7).

Agents, mules and the money trail

Out of the total accused, 17 acted as middlemen, 11 handled cheque and cash withdrawals worth Rs 34.7 lakh, while 53 served as mule account holders — receiving commissions of up to 5 per cent on the defrauded sums.

The operation also resulted in the seizure of 84 mobile phones, 101 SIM cards and 89 bank passbooks and cheque books used in multiple frauds.

Nationwide and overseas links

Investigations have so far traced 754 interlinked cases across India, including 128 in Telangana, amounting to nearly Rs 95 crore in fraudulent transactions.

At least 12 accused were involved in 30 or more cases, while 54 others had links to more than five cybercrime networks.

Officials also uncovered international connections, with some accused maintaining contact with handlers operating from abroad. Look-Out Circulars (LOCs) have been initiated against these foreign-linked suspects.

Breaking the cybercrime supply chain

A major focus of the TGCSB operation was to disrupt the supply chain that sustains cybercrime — including those providing bank accounts, SIM cards, and financial channels to scam networks.

“These facilitators form the backbone of organised fraud syndicates,” a senior official said. “By cutting off their access, we’re weakening the infrastructure that enables cybercriminals to thrive.”

The Bureau’s strategy emphasises intelligence-driven enforcement, collaboration with financial institutions and swift freezing of fraudulent accounts. The refund process for victims has already begun.

Public Advisory: Stay alert against cyber fraud

The TGCSB urged citizens to remain vigilant against online scams, particularly fake trading apps, investment platforms, and digital arrest frauds.

Key safety tips:

- Avoid apps or websites promising quick or high returns on investments.

- No law enforcement or customs officer will ever demand money or video verification online.

- Never share OTPs, QR codes, or banking details with unknown persons.

- Do not transfer funds to unverified accounts or links shared via social media.

- Use only verified financial platforms and official apps for transactions.

- Report cybercrimes through the 1930 helpline or visit www.cybercrime.gov.in.